Top Gear: Matt LeBlanc announced as new host

Matt LeBlanc is set to join Chris Evans in hosting the new Top Gear when it returns to BBC and BBC America in May.

According to a network release, LeBlanc’s appointment marks the first time that the series has had a non-British host in its 39-year history. However, the former Friends actor is no stranger to the BBC: he also stars in Episodes, a British-American sitcom that airs on BBC Two in the U.K. and on Showtime in the U.S., and LeBlanc has even twice appeared on Top Gear. Appearing in the series’ Star in a Reasonably Priced Car segment, LeBlanc holds the record for fastest lap time.

“As a car nut and a massive fan of Top Gear, I’m honoured and excited to be a part of this iconic show’s new chapter,” said LeBlanc in a statement. “What a thrill!”

Added his co-presenter, Evans (not to be confused with Captain America): “Matt’s a lifelong fellow petrolhead and I’m thrilled he’s joining Top Gear. Acting out our craziest car notions on screen is a dream job and I know we’ll both be debating some epic road trip ideas. We can’t wait to share what we’ve been up to on screen later this year.”